The Ark Preschool

Education & ChildcareRichmond5.0(17 reviews)
The Ark Preschool photo 1The Ark Preschool photo 2The Ark Preschool photo 3

About

The Ark Preschool is a Christian-based early childhood centre in Richmond, welcoming children aged 2 to 6 years. It offers a play-based curriculum with a 1:8 teacher-child ratio, along with a Tuakana Getting Ready for School group for older children. The centre has a purpose-built classroom and large outdoor play areas. It opens Monday to Friday, 7.30am to 4.30pm, and provides 20 hours free ECE for children aged 3 and over.

Reviews

The Ark Preschool has been wonderful for my daughter's development. We've changed preschools when she was 3 and we could see a noticeable positive change in her within the first week. She's been there now for almost 2 years. The teachers are fantastic. Always friendly, caring, patient and willing to help expecially on the mornings when emotions run high. This gives us great peace of mind. Each teacher brings their own skill set that helps with her development in different areas. We are very blessed for the care and support they provide and would highly recommend The Ark Preschool to other families.

Tharine R. · June 2026 · via Google

Our daughter went to The Ark Preschool for 2 + years and we had such a lovely experience. She was always so happy there and really looked forward to going each day. The teachers were always and still are kind, caring, and truly have love for the children. They took the time to get to know our family and took interest in our family values. Our daughter loved the space and the environment. They have a lovely outdoor space where the children can play and explore. Inside, there are always different activities set up like painting, playdough, crafts, and building, so there is always something fun and creative for the children to do. As a family we truly value the Christian aspect of the school and looked forward to our daughter coming home and sharing what she learnt about God. It’s such a warm and welcoming place where children can learn, play, and just be themselves. We always felt she was safe, cared for and encouraged. As a family we are so grateful for the care and support they gave her. What a wonderful preschool!

Line' D. · June 2026 · via Google

A hidden gem! I honestly don't know how these guys ever have spaces. As a qualified early childhood teacher for close to ten years, who is now a fulll time Mum, I've seen my fair share of centres. The Ark has a genuinely caring and supportive team who obviously love their jobs and work well togther, and with the children and families they are working with. Both my children would be happy to be left with any of the staff. From what I can see the teaching team are well supported by a board of trustees. Profits go back into the centre/community rather than an investors pocket (the case with most ECE centres these days). The ratios are higher than legal requirments. They have a large space for the number of children so no matter the weather there is plenty of space. They are well stocked with a huge number of toys, books and resources. All this means better quality care and education for the tamariki! I cannot be happier to have had my children here, knowing anytime away from me is in a space where they are genuinley cared for and valued. Couldn't recomend highly enough!

M L. · May 2026 · via Google

We had our daughter at The Ark for three years, and it was the most wonderful start to her early learning journey. The management and teaching team were consistently amazing—kind, supportive, and genuinely invested in every child. It’s a truly lovely Christian‑based preschool, and that sense of care and community shines through every day. Our daughter grew so much during her time there and was always excited to go in the mornings. As parents, we felt welcomed and included, and we’ve made some really lovely friendships and connections along the way. We’re incredibly grateful for everything The Ark has given our family and couldn’t recommend it more highly.

Stu D. · April 2026 · via Google

Our family had the pleasure of being part of the Ark whanau from September 2023 until February 2026, with our 2 tamariki. The teachers are so passionate and have genuine relationships with the children and help them to foster their own identity and creativity. Such a wonderful setting too with ample space inside and a very large playground, all that has recently been refurbished. We will miss you all! Highly recommend for all families in the area! Worth every cent!

Shayna E. · April 2026 · via Google

Services

  • Early childhood education (ages 2-6)
  • 20 hours free ECE (ages 3+)
  • Play-based curriculum
  • Tuakana Getting Ready for School group
  • Christian values-based programme
  • Indoor and outdoor play areas
  • Enrolment and centre visits